Australia Student Visa Requirements

As a prerequisite for studying abroad in Australia, you must apply for a student visa, which can seem like quite a complicated process. The good news is that our counsellors are here to guide you through each step along the way. From understanding the different visa types to the necessary fees and costs, IDP Singapore provides invaluable advice and assistance at every step of the way. 

To apply for a student visa, you must meet several requirements, including academic prerequisites for your course. The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) supports internationally recognized qualifications, facilitating employment and further studies abroad.  

You must also demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Australia. Additionally, you must meet the English language proficiency requirements such as taking the IELTS test.  

Student visa applicants face challenges and changes due to recent government policy shifts, affecting onshore applications and increasing application fees. Proposed visa caps could significantly reduce new enrolments, potentially affecting Australia's education sector and its reputation as a welcoming destination for international students.  

Despite this, Australia’s education system is known for its flexibility, allowing students to customise their educational journey. However, the evolving landscape of the international education system requires a careful balance between preserving educational quality and addressing economic challenges. 

The visa you need will depend on the type of study you want to do, and how long you want to stay in Australia. You can find out more about each type of visa on the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs (DHA) website.

The Australian student visa, particularly the Subclass 500 Student Visa, is the most common type sought by international students. There is another visa option available – the Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590), designed for individuals who wish to accompany a student under 18 to Australia and provide care during their studies.

To be eligible for a student visa, you must meet several key requirements. Firstly, you need to be enrolled in a course of study at an Australian education provider, which will issue you a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). A valid passport is essential, as is meeting the English language proficiency requirements set by your chosen course. Additionally, you must satisfy the academic prerequisites for your course and demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Australia. 

You must also meet the character and health requirements stipulated by the Australian Government. The necessary documents include your CoE, valid passport, proof of English language proficiency, academic transcripts and certificates, proof of financial support, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy documents. 

The student visa opens the door to a wide array of educational opportunities in Australia. Whether you’re aiming for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree, this visa has you covered. It also includes English language courses, vocational education training, as well as certificate and diploma courses. 

You can choose from a variety of education providers, including universities, colleges, TAFE institutions, English language schools, and vocational education and training providers. This flexibility allows you to tailor your educational journey to your specific needs and goals. 

You will need to create an account using DHA's online application system - ImmiAccount - to complete and submit your student visa application. You can also track the status of your visa through ImmiAccount once you have submitted it. 

The information you need for your visa application will depend on your nationality and which course you're studying. You will generally need: 

• Proof of enrolment (your Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment) 

• Your health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover) policy details 

• Your Genuine Student (GS) statement 

• Evidence of your English skills (your counsellor can book your place in the IELTS test) 

• A valid passport for at least six months when entering Australia 

• Your visa application fee 

• Academic and work experience documents 

All non-English documents must be officially translated and certified by a Notary Public or solicitor. 

Students must undertake health examinations at the Australian Immigration-approved panel clinics. Students must provide biometrics screening at VFS Global in Singapore. 

If you are under 18 years of age, you will also need to provide additional documents such as parental consent form 1229 and Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW). 

* For a detailed visa application checklist, please speak with your counsellor. 

You should submit your application at least 8 weeks before your course starts. 

Your application will be allocated a unique Transaction Reference Number (TRN) by the Australian Government. You can find out about the status of your application online.

Applying for a student visa involves a fee, which is currently set at AUD $1,600 regardless of your foreign nationality. You will most likely have to pay for other expenses, such as health checks, biometrics, and police certificates. 

The processing time for student visa applications can vary, influenced by the complexity of your application and the volume of applications being processed at any given time. 

To avoid any last-minute hassles, it is advisable to apply for your student visa at least 8-12 weeks before your course commences. You can check the current processing times on the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website to stay updated. 

Holding a student visa comes with certain conditions that you must adhere to. You are required to maintain satisfactory course progress and attendance throughout your study period.  

Additionally, you must maintain valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay. It is also crucial to notify the Australian Government of any changes to your circumstances, such as changes to your course or education provider.

As an international student in Australia, you have the opportunity to work part-time while you study, but there are specific restrictions on the number of hours you can work.  

During study terms and semesters, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight. However, during designated semester breaks or holidays, students can work unlimited hours without restriction. It is important to ensure that your work commitments do not interfere with your studies.  

Always check the latest guidelines on the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website to stay informed about any changes to these regulations. 

Note: The information provided is accurate as of the current date and is subject to change. It is always best to check the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date information. 

Once you get your Australia student visa, there are a number of things you need to do to ensure it remains valid, including: 

• Remain enrolled and maintain satisfactory course progress and attendance 

• Provide your Australian address to your institution so they can contact you (don't forget to let them know if you move) 

• Continue to be able to financially support yourself while in Australia 

• Don't breach the working conditions that apply to your visa 

If you want to change your qualification level, you will need to apply for a new student visa. Your counsellor can walk you through the student visa application process as well as go through the relevant information on the Australian government’s website. They can also help you prepare the necessary documents for your submission and for your student visa interview.